The oasis city of Al Ain has a dramatic setting, overlooked by the craggy mountain range of Jebel Hafeet. It's a pretty and ordered town that is easy to get around and is popular with visiting families for its zoo and many relaxing public parks. Historically, Al Ain has been settled since at least 3000 BC, and the museum here does a good job of tracing that long history. It's this history that has made the Al Ain area the only site in the United Arab Emirates to be inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

This is also an excellent destination for tourists interested in the local culture. Top things to do include excursions to the camel market and regular camel racing events. Those with an adventurous streak will enjoy a four-wheel-drive trip up to Jebel Hafeet's summit